Most of us have no trouble seeing the divide between cars and bikes from both sides, as most of us are both cyclists and drivers. Sure, there are a few purists on both sides. And among the purists, there are even some nut cases.

I’ve used that label in the past freely, but now it looks like the question will get its day in court. Story today about the motorist charged with attempted homicide in Multnomah County. It seems that Johhny Eschweiler may have gone all mental in a road rage incident.  According to the news report, a near miss by the driver led the cyclist to confront the driver shortly after. Apparently, Mr. Eschweiler then tried to kill the cyclists.

At least, that’s the implication, because his attorney indicated that he will plead guilty except for insanity defense.  I’m no expert on criminal law, but I assume that means more than road rage.

It’s tough on the roads. Despite Pdx’s great rah-rah rep as a bike friendly place, cyclists are exposed in most parts of our beloved city. We’re at the mercy of behemouths out there.  And of course, those of us who drive have had to dodge cyclists doing amazingly stupid things, like the guy who blew through the stop sign in front of me yesterday on his bike, carrying bags, no helmet, maybe an i-pod…. Thanks for that scare, pal.

If you find this annoying because you’re on one side or the other, know that I sit on both sides. I ride, I drive, and I represent cyclists and drivers.  Still, road rage is a killer. Maybe the lesson here is that we can all stand to take a deep breath and try to share the road?

David Sugerman

Hi Friends:

Just because I run a full-time law practice, does’nt mean I should forget a [free] special event that all of you may be interested in seeing this weekend. The Better Living Show link is taking place at the Expo Center starting right now at noon today (3/28) and going through sunday (3/30) at the Expo Center. The reason this comes to mind is that this exposition will include green transportation, food, fashion, kid events, government efforts on sustainability and more. I like green. So here I go, off to staff a booth.

The Oregon Center for Environmental Health link2, of which I am a founding board member, will be there. We will be introducing our kewel new latex-free rubber ducks!

So, if your plans for organic gardening are taking a spring break until the snow stops, come on by and we can hook you up with a non-toxic rubber ducky. That sounds like a little light fun and some very interesting information on sustainable and healthy living, right here in river city…or is that snowy city? or rainy city?

Regards and see you at the expo center this weekend. Take MAX!

David Paul

Friends:

The headlines the last two days contained two seemingly unconnected stories. Today’s front page (Oregonian) was saturated with insights about Mr. Obama and his speech last night seeking to unify our country on issues of race relations. There was tremendous support for the message, and the messenger as well.

Seemingly unconnected, the paper also reported on “bike boxes” link to help with traffic flow on Portland’s streets where bicycles and motorists meet. The two seem related. We have two communities, black and white, motorhead and bicyclists. Why can’t we just get along?

There is deep seated distrust in the two (four?) camps. Mr. Obama’s premise and the premise of the bike boxes is simple and similar. We just need to get along. There is no need to conflict or hassle. What matters is mutual respect and tolerance. Why don’t we just give that a try for a while and see if we can get along?

I have represented dozens of cyclists injured in traffic accidents in the local area, including Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties. I understand the insurance issues and the social issues involved in these cases. There may be some rights that surprise you. Contact me for a no-cost initial consultation. I would like to help.

And….. let’s just try to get along. At work, at school and on the way home tonight as well!

Sincerely,

David Paul

PAUL & SUGERMAN, PC.

503.224.6602